Ammonia Sorted, Just A Few More Questions

[riksworld]

Hi All,

Sorry for all the questions over the last month, been a fast learning curv, hopefully some people will be able to advise me on a few other questions / things

sorted out my ammonia problem out, would appear that all my live plants roots where rotten, so ive took them all out, im currently looking at replacing these with new plants:

1) am i better altering my tank setup slightly so i have a plannted tank so the plants can grow, i currently have a gravel base with the plant plots just sit in, if so, whats involed

2) how long do live plants usually last, ive only had these plants for around 4 weeks

3) Whats best to feed these plants with, if anything

4) My lights are F30W x 2, usually on for around 8 - 9 hours


As allways thanks to everyone who replys

 

[ox5477]

First off... dont ever say sorry about asking "too many questions" here on TFF. That is why the forum is here. It is suppose to be a friendly place in which any fishkeeper, whether a newbie or an experienced hobbiest who is trying something new, can ask all the questions they have and get the best information possible.

Now, with the plants, depending on what species they were, some plants need some extra help in the tank to grow. The use of higher wattage lighting, a CO2 diffuser and possibly some low dose fertilizer and aquatic soil are needed to help some of the more delicate plants to really thrive. But, there are also some plants like swords that are usually pretty good under moderate light and don't need extra CO2 or fertilizer injections. Check out the TFF planted tanks section to find out tons of info on plants you want to keep and what you might need to get to help them grow in your tank.

For the fish, almost all tropical fish will love the addition of plants to the tank. It gives them room to hide, play and breed. Some species are herbivirous though so make sure you do your reasearch, else your plants will end up as snacks